The tantalizing aroma of this Crispy Honey Chicken wafted through my kitchen, reminding me just how much I enjoy recreating my favorite takeout meals at home. I’ve always been captivated by that golden-brown crunch enveloping succulent chicken, but let’s be honest, finding the right balance of sweet and savory can be a challenge. After countless attempts, I finally crafted a dish that not only rivals my local takeout but surpasses it—thanks to a homemade honey soy sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
As I plated each crispy piece, I couldn’t help but think of the reactions from family and friends. This dish has become my go-to for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with satisfying textures. So, if you’re ready to ditch the fast-food routine and whip up something that feels indulgent but is simple to make, let’s dive into the world of Crispy Honey Chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Crispy Honey Chicken so irresistible?
Crispy coating meets savory sweetness in this delightful dish, making it a family favorite. Quick preparation means you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavor from the comfort of your home. Versatile enough to tweak with spices or sauces, it turns any meal into a celebration. Perfectly paired with rice or veggies, it satisfies those takeout cravings without the guilt! Want to explore more tasty options? Check out our guide on how to customize this dish for your taste preferences!
Crispy Honey Chicken Ingredients
For the Honey Sauce
- Honey – Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce; maple syrup can be a delightful alternative.
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor, balancing sweetness; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Water – Used to dilute the sauce; no substitutes necessary.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty flavor; omit for a lighter taste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar or Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance sweetness; lemon juice works as a substitute.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for a hint of heat; feel free to leave out if preferred.
For the Chicken
- Cornstarch – Thickens the honey sauce; arrowroot powder can be used instead.
- Chicken Breasts – The main protein, cut into bite-sized pieces; chicken thighs provide more flavor if preferred.
- Flour – Creates the crispy coating; use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Coriander, Onion Powder – Boost flavor; adjust these seasonings based on your preference.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture, helping the coating adhere; replace with regular milk mixed with vinegar if necessary.
- Canola or Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying, ensuring a crispy texture; olive oil can be used, but won’t yield the same crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Cooked Rice – Perfect to serve underneath your crispy chicken, soaking up all that delicious honey sauce.
- Sliced Green Onions – A lovely garnish that adds a fresh, colorful touch to each serving.
Explore how to elevate your meals with our delightful Crispy Honey Chicken!
How to Make Crispy Honey Chicken
-
Heat the Oil:
Pour 2-3 inches of canola or vegetable oil into a large frying pan and set the heat to medium-high. You want the oil nice and hot, ideal for frying until crispy. -
Prepare the Honey Sauce:
In a saucepan, mix together honey, low sodium soy sauce, water, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. -
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In one bowl, combine flour, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and onion powder. In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk, preparing for that crispy chicken coating you’re about to create. -
Coat the Chicken:
Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, dip it into the buttermilk, and then coat it again in the flour mixture. This double-dipping will ensure a fabulous crunch! -
Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. -
Drain and Combine:
Once cooked, remove the chicken and allow it to drain on paper towels. In a large bowl, gently toss the hot chicken pieces with the honey sauce you prepared earlier, making sure each piece is well-coated. -
Serve and Garnish:
Plate the crispy honey chicken over cooked rice and finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a colorful and fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Honey Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, prepare the honey sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, simply bread the marinated chicken and fry as instructed, ensuring a golden brown crust that maintains its crunch. This not only saves time but ensures you can enjoy this delightful dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Crispy Honey Chicken?
Enhance your homemade feast with these delightful pairings that will turn your meal into a flavorful journey.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the sweet honey sauce beautifully, providing a gentle contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a colorful, crunchy side that adds freshness and nutrition.
- Garlic Butter Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in garlic butter elevate the dish’s comfort level, complementing the crispy texture of the chicken.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: For those who crave an added kick, a drizzle of chili garlic sauce amplifies the flavors and adds an exciting heat.
- Sesame Green Beans: These tender beans dressed with sesame oil provide a delightful nutty flavor, creating a wonderful balance with the chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with thinly sliced cucumbers and a light vinaigrette will cleanse the palate between bites of sweet, sticky chicken.
- Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing glass of homemade lemonade offers a perfect tart contrast to the richness of the crispy honey chicken.
- Chocolate Mousse: Cap off your meal with a velvety chocolate mousse for a sweet ending that will delight both adults and kids alike!
Offering a complete dining experience, these side dishes and drinks will perfectly complement your Crispy Honey Chicken!
Crispy Honey Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this beloved dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
-
Teriyaki Twist: Swap honey for teriyaki sauce for a delightful flavor variation. This brings a savory-sticky profile that can elevate your weeknight dinner.
-
Chicken Thighs: Replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier, richer experience. The extra flavor depth will impress anyone at your dining table.
-
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for the coating, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish without worry.
-
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the honey sauce for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
-
Herbs & Spices: Experiment by incorporating fresh herbs, like cilantro or basil, into the honey sauce for an aromatic twist that brightens each bite.
-
Nutty Flavor: Try using almond or peanut oil for frying, enhancing not only the flavor but adding a bit of nuttiness to the crispy coating.
-
Citrus Zing: Introduce zest from an orange or lime to the honey sauce, creating a fresh, vibrant flavor that dances on your palate.
-
Mixed Vegetables: For a complete meal, toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli with the chicken before serving over rice.
Dare to adjust and explore; these variations can turn the classic into something uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Honey Chicken
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispiness.
-
Freezer: Freeze the uncoated chicken or cooked pieces sealed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
-
Reheating: For best results, re-crisp the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring a delightful crunch reminiscent of freshly cooked Crispy Honey Chicken.
Expert Tips for Crispy Honey Chicken
-
Temperature Check: Ensure that the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption; use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
-
Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at medium-high heat; too low will make your chicken greasy instead of crispy.
-
Double Coating: For an extra crunch, remember to coat the chicken twice—first in flour, then in buttermilk, and back in flour.
-
Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve crispiness without crowding the pan.
-
Timing is Key: Start making the honey sauce while the chicken is frying; this will keep everything hot and ready to serve together.
-
Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skimp on the sliced green onions; they elevate the presentation and add a fresh pop to your Crispy Honey Chicken!
Crispy Honey Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the crispiest and most flavorful results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a richer taste, chicken thighs can also be a fantastic option as they tend to stay juicier during cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Crispy Honey Chicken?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain that crispy texture, re-crisp the chicken by placing it in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze Crispy Honey Chicken?
Indeed! To freeze, place either the uncoated raw chicken or the cooked pieces in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I do if my chicken coating is not crispy?
Oh no! If your chicken coating turns out soggy, this could be due to frying at too low a temperature. Ensure the oil is heated adequately (medium-high) before adding the chicken. Also, double dredging the chicken in flour helps achieve that desired crunch. Next time, use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F while frying for optimal results.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Those with egg allergies can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and vinegar or a dairy-free milk alternative. If your family has specific spice preferences or needs, feel free to adjust seasonings or omit any that might cause allergies.
What should I serve with Crispy Honey Chicken?
Definitely! This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or fried rice, as the rice will soak up the delicious honey sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers on the side, which adds both color and nutrition!
Crispy Honey Chicken Recipe: Homemade Better Than Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour 2-3 inches of canola or vegetable oil into a large frying pan and set the heat to medium-high.
- In a saucepan, mix together honey, low sodium soy sauce, water, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
- In one bowl, combine flour, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and onion powder. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, dip into buttermilk, and coat again in the flour.
- Carefully fry the coated chicken pieces in batches for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels. Toss with the prepared honey sauce to coat.
- Serve the crispy honey chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sliced green onions.
